The Swedish Armed Forces are entering the NorthStar innovation program, run by Telia and Ericsson, to test new technical solutions aimed at strengthening Sweden's defense capabilities. The collaboration focuses on the use of advanced 5G technology in military communication, logistics, and positioning.
Through the program, the Swedish Armed Forces gain access to 5G Standalone, which enables, among other things, prioritized connectivity for critical functions and precise positioning of vehicles and personnel. The program is part of the Swedish Armed Forces' broader initiative to develop military and hybrid capabilities within the framework of NATO's collective defense.
– A prerequisite for being able to strengthen Sweden and act within NATO's collective defense is that our defense capability is enhanced. This means we need to leverage the latest technology and all the innovation power available within Swedish industry, says Brigadier General Mattias Hansson, CIO, in the press release.
NorthStar is intended to serve as a platform for civil-military cooperation, where civilian applications are tested and can be transferred to military contexts. The Swedish Armed Forces describe this as an opportunity to create new solutions through collaborations with startups and technology companies.
– The changed global situation places ever higher demands on a defense capability that possesses innovation ability, and access to new technology and resilient connectivity has proven central to a resilient defense, says Anders Olsson, CEO of Telia Sweden.
Ericsson particularly highlights the versatility of the technology as a key factor.
– 5G is the most versatile technology to meet high demands for secure, fast, and adaptable communication of sound, data, image, and video. We are therefore pleased to support the Swedish Armed Forces' important mission with our technology, says Niclas Backlund at Ericsson.
The Swedish Armed Forces also see the collaboration as a step in streamlining command system acquisitions and shortening the time between need and operational use.
– Through NorthStar, we ensure technical advancement, redundancy, and freedom of action both nationally and internationally, for both Sweden and our allies, says Mattias Hansson.